28 March 2015

Jonathan Peacock will
explore the life and legacy of the hugely important local figure, Jeremiah
Dixon. Born in Bishop Auckland to George Dixon, a well-to-do Quaker coalmine
owner, Dixon has been largely forgotten in England and, more importantly, in the
North East. But not only did he survey the present layout of the Park at
Auckland Castle under Bishop Trevor and presented to Bishop Egerton in 1772, he
lent his name to the Mason-Dixon line, one of Americas most famous boundaries
and perhaps the best-known line on the planet after the Equator. It came to
signify the border between the North and South, separating the free state of
Pennsylvania from slave-owning Maryland. The term Dixie-Land is still
recognised today as a reference to the southern states of America. Dixon died in
1779, still a young man at only 46 but one who in a dangerous age had travelled
the world in pursuit of scientific excellence.

The lecture will start at
6.30pm in the Long Dining Room and will be followed by a drinks reception in our
Throne Room.

Tickets for the lecture
cost £6 and must be paid for in advance at Visitor Reception, or by calling
01388 743750.

If you have an Annual
Pass (costing £15) lectures are free but please book your place in advance as
spaces are limited. If you would like to purchase an Annual Pass, please call
01388 743750.